Delayed herbicide options for emerged corn

NOTE: see also the update [1] to this article.

Whether due to unfavorable weather conditions or inevitable spring constraints, there are some fields where corn has emerged before the planned preemergence herbicides could be applied. Many preemergence corn herbicides can also be applied early postemergence in corn. Axiom, Balance, Define and Epic herbicides are exceptions and can only be applied prior to corn emergence. The table below lists some of the preemergence corn herbicide products that can also be applied postemergence, as well as the recommended maximum plant heights or growth stages at application. Products listed include only those that do not require specific, herbicide tolerant corn hybrids.

It is important to remember that control may be less consistent with delayed preemergence treatment compared to treatments applied closer to planting. This is primarily due to weeds germinating and emerging before exposure to the herbicides, but can also be due to other factors such as weed species present and weather conditions. Fields in which the preemergence herbicide applications were delayed a week or more after planting should be monitored to determine the actual control levels obtained. Weed control from preemergence herbicides may be acceptable, or additional control measures may be needed.